Posted by
Bonehead (Planet Earth - Zone 8b) on Mar 23, 2014 11:49 AM concerning plant:
Native in the Pacific NW. This is a very elegant tree with a characteristic droopy top, I've often trained my outdoor porch light on one when covered with snow for a magical effect. Although it has no relation to poison hemlock, the crushed needles have a similar smell. Heterophylla means different leaves, referring to the mix of different lengthed needles. Very shade tolerant, and will reseed itself prolifically, creating a dense stand of seedlings. Lives 200-400 years. May be grown as a timber crop (moderate growth rate), or for firewood. The pitch can be used in salves and ointments.
